Korean solo developer FancySquare has released a free Steam demo for its horror mystery game 'Michael Test', currently in development.
'Michael Test' is a first-person horror, mystery, and puzzle game where players uncover the truth behind incidents by contrasting sounds coming from paintings with the scene before their eyes. Standing on the boundary between life and death, players undergo the trial of Archangel Michael, investigating the traces of incidents left in paintings and judging the sins hidden within.
The core gameplay lies in finding contradictions between the information seen and heard. While observing the painting, players must pinpoint the direction and location of sounds to identify elements that do not match visual clues. Sound builds a horror atmosphere while simultaneously serving as evidence to interpret the incident.
A feature that allows players to retrace sound is also used for deduction. Right-clicking lets players hear sounds within the painting, while the mouse wheel adjusts the playback position forward and backward. By repeatedly checking missed moments, players deduce what the scene in front of them is concealing.
When mismatched elements are identified and selected, the scene within the painting is restored step by step. The altered painting serves as a clue for the next judgment, and as the investigation continues, the hidden incident is gradually revealed. In the end, players must identify which of the seven deadly sins is hidden within the incident, based on the restored scene.
The movement method for investigating paintings is also unique. Players examine the paintings while moving up and down suspended by a rope. This investigation mechanic, combined with artwork inspired by classic paintings, creates the game's distinct horror atmosphere. As the direction and location of sounds are crucial, playing with headphones or earphones is recommended.
'Michael Test' is a single-player PC game aiming for a Steam release on March 31, 2027, with a closed beta test planned for Q4 2026. Supporting interface and subtitles in 12 languages including Korean, as well as English voice acting, the game offers a free Steam demo where players can experience its deduction mechanics in advance.
Meanwhile, 'Michael Test' is also running a crowdfunding campaign on Tumblbug. Detailed information about the development project can be found on its active Tumblbug campaign page.
